The microscope has been—and continues to be—among the more important tools that scientists have. Much of what we know in science, and particularly in biology, we have learned by using microscopes.
There are three kinds of microscopes: simple microscopes, compound microscopes, and electron microscopes. Simple microscopes are much like magnifying glasses—they have one lens only. If a microscope uses two lenses working together, it is a compound microscope. Compound microscopes produce larger, sharper, clearer images. Electron microscopes use electrons and magnets instead of glass lenses. They are very powerful and can magnify up to two million times!
The Microscope Video Online teaches you how to use a compound microscope, and describes its different parts.
The Interactive Flash Demonstration allows you to become more familiar with the microscope through a thorough description of its parts. You can also conduct a virtual virtual slide viewing, complete with the ability to fine-tune the viewing of your slide using the adjustment knob.
